Drain Marker Program

Why Mark Storm Drains?

Water that flows down the street and into the storm drain empties directly into local waterways, including Puget Sound, without treatment. This means that pollutants and garbage the water carries also end up in the waterways.

The Pierce County drain marking program began in 2010, and has resulted in the marking of more than 3,000 storm drains. The markers include the message "Only rain down the drain," to remind people that what goes down the storm drain ends up in the waterways. Markers were placed by volunteer groups, with coordination by the Pierce Conservation District Stream Team.

How to Request Markers for Your Neighborhood or Property

If you live in a subdivision with more than 12 storm drains and are willing to mark storm drains yourself, call us and request a free drain marking kit. Supplies are limited, so you may be placed on a waiting list.

If you live in a subdivision with less than 12 storm drains, or are not willing/able to mark the drains yourself, let us know, and we will place your neighborhood on a list of locations for volunteers to mark. These markings are done as volunteers are available and are not guaranteed.

If you are a business or other private landowner who would like to mark storm drains on your property, call us and request a free drain marking kit. Supplies are limited, so you may be placed on a waiting list for the next season.

Want to Volunteer to Mark Storm Drains?

Storm drain marking can only be done when it will be dry for at least 24 hours before and after drains are marked, so most storm drain marking takes place during the summer. We are always looking for volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, please contact: